The CMA CGM Group continues to strengthen its intra-regional maritime network across the Indian subcontinent and the Middle East. By enhancing connectivity between these strategically vital regions, CMA CGM reaffirms its role as a key enabler of trade and economic development.
On the 12th of February, as part of his state visit to France, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron were welcomed by Rodolphe Saadé, Chairman and CEO of the CMA CGM Group, at the Group’s headquarters in Marseille. The ambitious IMEC project, which aims to enhance transit between Europe and India through integrated maritime and land infrastructure was one of the strategic topics discussed during this visit.
With new BIGEX 3 and 4 services, CMA CGM extends the most comprehensive offer of direct links between India, the Gulf, and the Red Sea
A cornerstone of this regional network is CMA CGM’s BIGEX service, which provides the most comprehensive offer of direct links between India, the Gulf, and the Red Sea. New BIGEX 3, from India to the Red Sea, and BIGEX 4, from India to Saudi Arabia and Iraq, further enhance this network. Both of these weekly services offer customers best in class transit times as well optimal reefer plug capacity to meet trade requirements. BIGEX 3 will call the ports of call at Nhava Sheva, Mundra, Salalah, and Jeddah, with the first sailing from Nhava Sheva being scheduled on 23rd February 2025. Vessels on BIGEX 4 will call the ports of Nhava Sheva, Mundra, Dammam, and Umm Qasr, with the first sailing from Nhava Sheva being scheduled on 25th February 2025.
These services are part of CMA CGM’s commitment to providing efficient and reliable shipping solutions in the dynamic Intra Indian Subcontinent and Middle East Gulf. By focusing on strategic countries such as India and Saudi Arabia, the BIGEX 3 and 4 services complement the existing BIGEX loops, which already connect India to the Red Sea and the Upper Arabian Gulf. This expansion enhances CMA CGM’s extensive network in the region, now comprising 12 loops, solidifying the Group’s position as a global player in the Intra Indian Subcontinent and Gulf trade, and facilitating connectivity to and from global markets.
As a global player in the port and logistics chain, the CMA CGM Group operates 60 port terminals in 30 countries, including Nhava Sheva Freeport Terminal (NSFT) near Mumbai, CT4 in Mundra, India, and CMA Terminals Khalifa Port in Abu Dhabi.
CMA CGM Group, supporting regional trade and contributing to the ambitious IMEC project
The IMEC project aims to enhance transit between Europe and India through integrated maritime and land infrastructure while also facilitating energy transport and telecommunications via a subsea cable. This strategic corridor will significantly boost trade between the European Union and the Middle East.
With a modern fleet adapted to alternative energy sources and key port hubs in India, the UAE, and the Mediterranean, CMA CGM will be a key contributor to the corridor’s efficiency. Additionally, a network of dry ports along the IMEC rail route—stretching from India through Saudi Arabia and the Middle East to Europe—will leverage the Group’s logistics expertise, reinforcing the economic and strategic vision of this alternative trade route.
By combining maritime flexibility with land connectivity, CMA CGM will play a vital role in the success of this transformative trade corridor.
Through its comprehensive shipping, inland, air freight, and logistics solutions, the CMA CGM Group empowers its customers with efficient and flexible supply chain options. The Group’s continued investment in regional connectivity underscores its long-term vision for driving trade facilitation and economic prosperity in these high-growth markets.
Jesper Stenbak, Regional Director of CMA CGM in the Middle East Gulf, Indian Subcontinent, Indian Ocean Islands, and Southern & East Africa, stated: “The Indian subcontinent and the Middle East have long been pivotal regions for global trade. As economic cooperation intensifies and trade volumes grow, our strengthened intra-regional network enables businesses to capitalize on emerging opportunities. With CMA CGM’s extensive global reach and commitment to innovation, we continue to deliver superior connectivity and logistics solutions to support our customers’ success.”
